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Utility Locating Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Accura Engineering

SUE Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Highschool diploma or GED equivalent * 1-2 years of experience in SUE, utility locating, or a related field. * Familiarity with SUE methods, including QL-B, QL-C, QLD and QL-A. * Ability to read and ...

Accura Engineering

SUE Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Highschool diploma or GED equivalent * 1-2 years of experience in SUE, utility locating, or a related field. * Familiarity with SUE methods, including QL-B, QL-C, QLD and QL-A. * Ability to read and ...

Accura Engineering

SUE Technician

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

Highschool diploma or GED equivalent * 1-2 years of experience in SUE, utility locating, or a related field. * Familiarity with SUE methods, including QL-B, QL-C, QLD and QL-A. * Ability to read and ...

TERRACON

Engineering Technician I

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

In addition to utility locating services, perform field reconnaissance in support of the planned subsurface exploration activities and layout of test locations. The candidate may also be responsible ...

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All JobsUtility Locating JobsUtility Locating Jobs in Tennessee

Utility Locating information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$16

$24

How much do utility locating jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locating in Tennessee is $16.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $17.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

In the utility locating field, highly experienced professionals such as senior utility coordinators or specialized contractors working on large infrastructure projects can earn around $3,000 per day, especially when working overtime or on high-value projects. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and the ability to operate specialized equipment in demanding environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Utility Locator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utility Locator, you need a strong understanding of underground utility systems, map reading, and attention to detail, usually supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with electromagnetic locating equipment, GIS mapping software, and safety procedures is typically required, along with certifications such as OSHA safety training. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and reliability help you interact effectively with contractors, property owners, and team members. These skills ensure accurate identification and marking of utilities, which is crucial for preventing service interruptions and ensuring job site safety.

What is the difference between Utility Locating vs Pipe Fitting?

AspectUtility LocatingPipe Fitting
Required CredentialsTypically no formal certification, but safety training is commonTrade certifications or technical training required
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, construction sites, utility corridorsIndoor and outdoor, construction sites, industrial facilities
Industry UsageUtility companies, construction, excavationPlumbing, construction, industrial facilities
Common Search/ComparisonUtility Locating vs Pipe FittingUtility Locating vs Pipe Fitting

Utility locating involves identifying underground utilities to prevent damage during excavation, while pipe fitting focuses on installing and repairing piping systems. Both roles are essential in construction and maintenance, but utility locators primarily work outdoors with detection equipment, whereas pipe fitters handle pipe assembly and repair in various environments.

What do you need to become a utility locator?

To become a utility locator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, knowledge of underground utility systems, and training in the use of locating tools such as ground-penetrating radar and electromagnetic detectors. Some employers may require certification or on-the-job training to develop skills in safe and accurate utility detection.

How much do utility locators make?

Utility locators in Florida typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Compensation can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the job environment.

What are some common challenges utility locators face in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Utility locators often work in varied and sometimes unpredictable environments, making it challenging to accurately identify and mark underground utilities, especially in areas with congested or outdated maps. Weather conditions, difficult terrain, and interference from other buried infrastructure can also present obstacles. Effective communication with contractors, property owners, and team members is essential to overcome these challenges, as is using advanced locating equipment and continuously updating one's knowledge of local utility layouts. Ongoing training and adherence to safety protocols help ensure accuracy and reduce the risk of utility strikes.

What are utility locators and what do they do?

Utility locators are professionals who use specialized equipment to identify and mark the location of underground utilities such as gas lines, water pipes, electrical cables, and telecommunications lines. Their main role is to prevent accidental damage during excavation or construction projects by ensuring that workers know where underground infrastructure is buried. This helps protect public safety, prevents costly repairs, and ensures compliance with local regulations. Utility locators often work for private companies, government agencies, or utility providers.

How hard is it to be a utility locator?

Utility locators identify underground utility lines using specialized equipment such as ground-penetrating radar and electromagnetic detectors. The job requires attention to detail, knowledge of safety protocols, and often some technical training or certification, but it is generally considered accessible with proper training and experience.
What are popular job titles related to Utility Locating jobs in Tennessee? For Utility Locating jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Locating jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Locating jobs in Tennessee are:
Utility Locating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Locating job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 40% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,779 per year, or $16.7 per hour.
Private Utility Locator/SUE Technician

Private Utility Locator/SUE Technician

Safe Site Utility Services LLC

Nashville, TN

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Description

At Safe Site Utility Services, we live our core values-Communication, Honesty, Accountability, Safety and Expertise-in every interaction and decision. Providing industry-leading Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE), utility locating, and damage prevention solutions. Our team is driven by a commitment to safety, accuracy, and excellence.


As a Private Utility Locator/SUE Technician, you'll be at the forefront of providing quality locating services, working directly with clients. Your expertise with Ground Penetrating Radar, acoustic, and split-box locating will ensure safe, efficient subsurface utility detection. If you thrive outdoors, enjoy solving challenges, and love using the latest survey and mapping technology, this role is perfect for you! 

 
 

Responsibilities: 

Analyze job sites and identify potential subsurface utility conflicts using state-of-the-art technology. 

Develop strong connections with clients, ensuring their needs are met with top-notch service. 

Direct a team to complete projects efficiently and safely, ensuring all safety protocols are followed. 

From large-scale construction sites to small projects, you'll thrive in varied conditions and embrace new challenges every day. 

Read and interpret blueprints, maps, and work orders to ensure precise locating. 

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